students should grade their teachers

By Josh Berelowitz ‘26
Students should be able to grade their teachers on their ability to efficiently convey information. It is completely unfair that while students may be receiving future-altering grades, there is no policy among the student body that allows for reverse assessment. 

Students face parent-teacher conferences that discuss a student's behavior and academic skills. However, this process is one-sided; there is no policy in which students can give direct feedback about a teacher. 
A necessary aspect of schooling for both teachers and students is growth; students are being pushed to grow but are not given the chance to push back. 
Different teachers employ different techniques and have different teaching styles. While there is a positive sense of change from class to class, certain techniques work better for some students than others.
 Teachers must learn to adapt to the needs of students, as two children in the same class may not benefit from the same teaching tactics. 
A reverse grading process would allow students to provide constructive feedback ensuring they get the education they rightfully deserve. Many miscommunications could be avoided, and all students would feel seen, heard and valued. 
    On another note, a reverse grading system would enforce a sense of security and accountability for the teachers. Such feedback has the power to motivate teachers who are truly passionate about shaping the lives and minds of students. 
Junior Sam Kishelev says, “If teachers are under the impression that they are always being evaluated and watched, they will strive for excellence at all times.”
    When a student wants to talk to a teacher to enhance their learning experience, not only does it benefit the class experience, it improves the relationship that a student holds with the teacher.  
“When I can meet with my teachers to talk about my classwork, if I also can talk about their teaching, it will make our relationship better,” says Junior Leam Bilik.
    Additionally, there is a perceived hierarchy in the classroom and schools have been working for a while now to try to lessen the so-called gap between the teacher and the students. It would be beneficial for everyone if both parties were perceived as colleagues, not someone who is higher or lower than the other. 
    When the student body feels heard as a whole, and individual needs are met, the schooling system will become much more effective and enjoyable. Students will also be able to gain even more from their academics and soar to new heights and expectations. 
However, this can only be achieved through a consistent cycle of communication.